Start your morning with a vibrant and nutrient-packed breakfast bowl featuring crispy halloumi cheese, fresh greens, and creamy avocado. This dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors and provides a delicious balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber—perfect for fueling your day.
Whether you’re in need of a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely brunch, this halloumi breakfast bowl is a fantastic choice. The combination of warm, salty halloumi with crisp veggies and a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing and satisfying meal. Customize it by adding poached eggs for extra protein or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 block (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
- 1/4 cup pitted olives
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 eggs (optional, for extra protein)
Directions:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, mixed greens, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Top the salad with crispy halloumi slices and avocado.
- If using eggs, fry or poach them separately and add them to the bowl.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 2
What is Halloumi?
Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese traditionally made from a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It originates from Cyprus and is known for its high melting point, making it perfect for frying or grilling. When cooked, halloumi develops a golden, crispy crust while remaining soft and slightly chewy on the inside. Its savory, slightly salty flavor pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and salads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
- High in Protein – Halloumi and eggs (if added) provide a great source of protein.
- Nutrient-Packed – Loaded with fresh veggies, healthy fats from avocado, and a light homemade dressing.
- Versatile & Customizable – Add grains like quinoa or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-salty twist.
- Vegetarian-Friendly – A satisfying meal without any meat, yet filling and delicious.
Health Benefits of This Breakfast Bowl
- Halloumi Cheese – High in protein and calcium, supports bone health and muscle repair.
- Avocado – Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, great for heart health and digestion.
- Mixed Greens – Provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential antioxidants.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known to support skin and heart health.
- Olive Oil – A healthy fat that contains anti-inflammatory properties and supports brain function.
Tips for Making the Best Halloumi Breakfast Bowl
- Use High-Quality Halloumi – Opt for authentic Cypriot halloumi for the best taste and texture.
- Get a Perfect Sear – Cook the halloumi in a dry non-stick pan over medium heat for a crispy, golden crust.
- Customize Your Bowl – Try adding poached or soft-boiled eggs for extra protein, or toss in some roasted chickpeas for extra crunch.
- Balance the Flavors – If halloumi is too salty, pair it with sweeter ingredients like honey-drizzled nuts or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Serve Immediately – Halloumi tastes best when freshly cooked, as it tends to firm up when cooled.
Variations & Additions
- Add a Grain – Serve over cooked quinoa, bulgur, or couscous for a more filling meal.
- Make it Vegan – Swap halloumi for pan-fried tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Boost the Crunch – Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds.
- Spice it Up – Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a slice of whole-grain toast or pita bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of Greek yogurt with honey for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast.
- Enjoy it as a brunch bowl alongside a fresh fruit smoothie or an iced coffee.
This Halloumi Breakfast Bowl is the perfect combination of crisp, creamy, fresh, and flavorful—a meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrition. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast or a light lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Halloumi Cheese
- High in calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle repair.
- Adds a savory, slightly salty flavor with a crispy, golden crust when cooked.
Avocado
- Rich in monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health.
- Adds creaminess and balances the saltiness of halloumi.
Cherry Tomatoes
- Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart and skin health.
- Provide a juicy and slightly sweet contrast to the dish.
Mixed Greens (Arugula, Spinach, or Lettuce)
- High in fiber, vitamins A & C, and essential antioxidants.
- Offer a fresh, slightly peppery taste that complements halloumi.
Olives
- A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Add a briny, umami depth to the bowl.
Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Dressing
- Provides a light and tangy finish that enhances all the ingredients.
- Olive oil is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and healthy fats.
Tips for the Perfect Halloumi Breakfast Bowl
🔥 Sear Halloumi Correctly: Cook halloumi in a dry non-stick pan over medium heat to achieve a crispy, golden crust. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery.
🌿 Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great salad is fresh, high-quality produce. Choose ripe avocados, crisp greens, and juicy tomatoes for the best results.
🥚 Boost Protein with Eggs: Add a poached or fried egg for extra protein and richness. The creamy yolk pairs beautifully with the crispy halloumi.
🌰 Add Crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch.
🍋 Brighten the Flavors: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can enhance the overall taste.
🌾 Make it More Filling: Serve with quinoa, couscous, or whole-grain toast for a heartier meal.
Variations & Customizations
✅ Vegan Alternative: Swap halloumi for pan-fried tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
✅ Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or harissa for a bit of heat.
✅ Mediterranean Style: Toss in some roasted chickpeas, hummus, or feta cheese for extra flavor.
✅ Grain-Based Bowl: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a more filling meal.
How to Serve This Dish
🍽 Best Served Fresh: Halloumi is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, while it’s still warm and crispy.
🥂 Pair It With: A glass of fresh orange juice, iced coffee, or a fruit smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
🥖 Side Options: Serve with warm pita bread, whole-grain toast, or Greek yogurt for added variety.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Halloumi Storage: Keep uncooked halloumi in its brine in the fridge for up to one month.
- Prepping Ahead: You can chop the vegetables and make the dressing in advance, but cook the halloumi fresh for the best texture.
- Leftovers: Store the salad (without halloumi) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add freshly seared halloumi before serving.
Conclusion
This Halloumi Breakfast Bowl is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, bringing together Mediterranean flavors, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado in one satisfying dish. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a light lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.